River Cruising - U by Uniworld
River Cruising is a simple way to see multiple cities on one trip, and most ports are situated in the middle of cities, much more conveniently located than airport! The travel itself is also efficient, as sailing often takes place at night. U by Uniworld offers itineraries that visit up to ten places in eight days. In fact, they even adjusted multiple itineraries to depart at a later time, so you can take advantage of the nightlife.
There’s plenty of freedom when the ship is docked too. You can take a bike and explore the city on your own or head off on a guided tour. Yoga & Stretching classes are available each morning on the upper deck each day. The number of excursions included varies depending on the length of the cruise. There is normally one shore excursion included per day and there are also optional extras which can be charged to your on-board account. Before your cruise, you will be sent an itinerary, where you can list your choice of excursions in order of preference or if you prefer, opt out completely.
Throughout your cruise, there are two designated hosts on board to make sure you make the most of your U experience. They are on hand to answer any questions or queries you may have, give local advice and suggestions and they also lead and guide most of the excursions. On top of this there are 50 bicycles on board which can be used for planned bicycle tours or if you would like to use at leisure. Some examples of tours available are:
- City Walking Tours - Bicycle Tours - Tasting tour of a local market with a chef - Brewery tour - Wine & Cheese Tour - Planned nights off the Cruise
The ship is notably eco-conscious and paper-free. Menus are displayed on television screens in the restaurant, itineraries appear on screens throughout the ship and also on your stateroom TV. You will also be added a group WhatsApp chat that shares important updates and itinerary changes. This group chat allows for quick communication when schedules shift, such as earlier or later departures. While on board, the Captain and the Chef communicated with us this way!
The cabins are small and compact. Unpacking in full when you arrive is a must and there is ample storage & your luggage fits underneath your bed. There are four cabin types; Suite , Balcony, Studio & Triple.
Dining on board these ships offers two options:
1. Dine - the main dining restaurant on the lower deck serves breakfast/ brunch &and dinner. Meals on board are inspired by the cities you visit along your cruise. The menu changes daily & all dietary requirements are catered for, and two meals per day are included in your cruise fare
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2. U Lounge - The always open lounge on entry deck serves after hour snacks and tapas style sharing plates.
A light breakfast is usually served from 7:30am, but if you don’t fancy rising early for breakfast why not enjoy a late bunch served from 9:30am -12:30pm! Dinner is served from 7-9pm each evening, with very casual fine dining.
The overall cruise fare is half board, but you can purchase a Drinks Package, which based on a 7-day cruise, costs €299.00. Note that you do have up to day 3 of your trip to decide if you want the drinks package and if so, your bill is adjusted accordingly.
If you too would like to experience a river cruise, I would be happy to help you in choosing the right trip and itinerary for you. Please do not hesitate to contact me.